As I’ve stated many times I’m a big fan of classic arcade shooting so when titles take that style of play and run with it, trying to add in some new spice, I’m always down to check it out. In the case of First Contact they really throw in at least two additional components rather than just one, with both the fact that you can use twin sticks to aim as you move around the screen and the ability with some weapons to charge up enemies and then detonate them in the hopes of blowing up or at least damaging other enemy ships. On top of that there’s a pretty satisfying variety in weapons you’ll be able to choose between, and you’ll be able to alternate between two of them as you go so you can get pretty strategic with how you approach your loadouts. All that said, in the end the general play just feels a bit bland. That isn’t to say it’s easy, you’ll have to be careful not to be overwhelmed in spots, but at the same time with so much strong competition on the system this shooter, for all of its attempts to make itself feel fresh, just doesn’t make much of a lasting impression in order to take a place in the higher echelon.